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Juninho inching closer to MLS?

Juninho inching closer to MLS?

Brazilian set-piece maestro Juninho Pernambucano has been linked to the New York Red Bulls for a couple weeks now, and the latest tidbit out of Brazil seems to indicate that the Red Bulls are stepping up their interest in the veteran midfielder.

This report from Globo Esporte [PORTUGUESE] quotes the player's agent, José Fuentes, as saying that New York have "pre-registered" Juninho. The language used by Fuentes, who explains the move gives the Red Bulls exclusive rights to negotiate with the player, seems to indicate that the Red Bulls have placed a Discovery Tag on Juninho.

The article also states that Juninho has not reached a decision on his future yet, but could announce his decision as early as next week. It should also be noted that the Discovery Tag applies only within MLS, so Juninho is still free to negotiate and sign with other Brazilian and foreign clubs.

Though he will turn 38 at the end of January, Juninho still seems to have some life left in his legs, having scored 13 goals in 49 apperances across all competitions in 2012. And who could say no to having a free-kick taker of this caliber (at least as good as David Beckham, I would argue) bending them home in MLS?

This should be an interesting one to follow, especially since Red Bull director of global soccer Gérard Houllier is familiar with Juninho from their time together at Lyon, so check back at MLSsoccer.com throughout the weekend and next week for more updates.